Definitions.

As used in this chapter , unless the context otherwise requires: 1. “Ambulatory surgical center” means a distinct facility that operates primarily for the purpose of providing surgical services to patients not requiring hospitalization and in which the expected duration of services does not exceed twenty-four hours following an admission. “Ambulatory surgical center” includes a facility certified or seeking certification as an ambulatory surgical center under the federal Medicare program or under the medical assistance program established pursuant to chapter 249A . “Ambulatory surgical center” does not include the individual or group practice office of a private physician, podiatrist, or dentist who there engages in the lawful practice of surgery, not including cosmetic, reconstructive, or plastic surgery, or the portion of a licensed hospital designated for outpatient surgical treatment. 2. “Department” means the department of inspections, appeals, and licensing. 2023 Acts, ch 16, §22 ; 2023 Acts, ch 119, §20